BENJAMIN MEARNS CAUGHT IN MOSSTODLOCH AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT NEAR THE PINNI IN FOCHABERS

In a disturbing incident that unfolded in the Moray region, a young schoolgirl was subjected to a terrifying ordeal involving a cyclist who pursued her through a busy recreational area before committing a sexual assault. The incident took place on July 24 of the previous year at a location known locally as 'The Pinni' in Fochabers, a scenic spot that runs alongside the River Spey, attracting many visitors during the summer months.

According to court proceedings at Inverness Sheriff Court, the perpetrator was identified as 43-year-old Benjamin Mearns. The court was informed that Mearns approached the girl, who was then 14 years old, along with her friend as they were heading to swim in the river accompanied by three boys. The prosecution revealed that Mearns initially offered the girls a sum of £20, proposing to take photographs of them in their bathing costumes. The girls, feeling frightened and intimidated, repeatedly refused his offer and expressed their fear, prompting them to run away from the scene. Mearns then cycled out of view, leaving the girls to continue their journey.

However, the ordeal was not over. As the girls finished swimming and were making their way home, Mearns reappeared on his bicycle. One of the girls attempted to escape by running away but unfortunately tripped and fell to the ground. It was at this moment that Mearns allegedly re-engaged with her, placing his hands on her shoulders, pushing her back down, and pulling up her bra in a sexual manner. The girl responded by screaming and kicking out in an attempt to defend herself. Her friends, hearing her distress, intervened by striking Mearns in an effort to force him to leave. Despite their efforts, Mearns managed to get back on his bike and pedaled away towards the High Street.

Local authorities were promptly alerted to the incident. Through the use of CCTV footage obtained from nearby businesses, police were able to trace and apprehend Mearns approximately one week later. During the court proceedings, Mearns pleaded guilty to charges of sexual assault and breach of the peace, which led to his case being scheduled for sentencing. The judge deferred sentencing until August 15 to allow for the preparation of background reports.

Mearns, whose address was listed as Stewart Place in Mosstodloch, was placed on the Sex Offender Register and his bail was continued pending sentencing. The case highlights the ongoing concerns about safety in recreational areas and the importance of swift law enforcement response to such serious allegations.